There are simply too many buttons on the steering wheel, and the adaptive cruise buttons are confusing, associate editor Billy Rehbock said. He was particularly frustrated by two buttons that look like they’re for lane keeping even though one enables cruise control while the other configures the former. A third button controls cruise control, and yet another controls the vehicle’s following distance. Judges also complained about too much information being crammed into the small gauge cluster, making it difficult to read.
Our judges’ biggest complaint, however, is the placement of the driver’s digital display, which sits at the windshield base and forces an awkward driving position. The poor ergonomics make you sit higher and place the steering wheel almost in your lap to be able to see the gauges clearly. And if you glance over at the infotainment screen propped up on the dash, the system is quick to yell at you to get your eyes back on the road. We do appreciate the new 14.0-inch infotainment screen with dedicated climate controls across the bottom and physical knobs with clever colors, all of which represent clear improvements.
There is lots of room in the back-seat area, as well as seat-back pockets, vents, USB ports, and heated chairs. You never escape how stark it all looks, though. The power tailgate gives way to a wide trunk with no cubbies, but it has bag hooks, a high-wattage 120V outlet, and a lower storage area perfect for the charging cable.
The bZ starts at a lower price than the outgoing model—good value for a vehicle that’s vastly improved in key areas (power and range) and offers a spirited and sporty ride (for those who can find a decent seating position to see the gauges).
This review was conducted as part of our 2026 SUV of the Year (SUVOTY) testing, where each vehicle is evaluated on our six key criteria: efficiency, design, safety, engineering excellence, value, and performance of intended function. Eligible vehicles must be all-new or significantly revised.